Brooklyn Daily Eagle

The New York Blood Center wants the public to be aware that only two percent of the eligible population in the metropolitan area donates blood. Compared to the national average of five percent, New York City lags. More than 400 pints of blood are needed daily to meet the needs of patients in over 12 hospitals in Brooklyn.

New York Blood Center provides life-saving blood products and clinical and transfusion services to about 200 hospitals in New York and New Jersey. NYBC provides the area with top-quality transfusion products and services, leading-edge research, technological and medical care innovation, and education in the field of transfusion medicine.

Prospective donors who have any questions about the synagogue’s blood drive, or who want to schedule an appointment, may call the BHS Office at 718-522-2070, or email [email protected]. Medical questions concerning eligibility to be a blood donor (especially if one regularly takes certain medications) should be directed to 1-800-688-0900. All prospective donors to the synagogue’s blood drive must bring valid identification and know their own Social Security numbers, must have a minimum weight of 110 lbs., must not have had a tattoo in the past 12 months, and be between the ages of 17-76. With parental supervision, 15 and 16-year-olds who meet the above qualifications can also donate blood.

The Brooklyn Heights Synagogue is at 131 Remsen St., between Henry and Clinton streets.***St. Joseph’s Church on Pacific Street in Prospect Heights hosts a blood drive on Sunday, Feb. 24. New York Blood Center is asking donors to help replenish the blood supply after last weekend’s snowstorm, which hampered appointments at donor centers. NYBC estimates that the snowstorm caused the loss of 1,000 scheduled blood donations.

The blood drive at St. Joseph’s Church, which is on Pacific between Washington and Vanderbilt Aves., runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. that Sunday, in the parish’s Blue Room. Donors may register in advance or show up at the door. All donors are asked to eat well-balanced meals before giving blood. Donors at this blood drive do not have to disclose their SS numbers, but all will be asked to provide a photo or signature ID. To register, call the New York Blood Center Eligibility Line at 1-800-688-0900. Or visit the websites, www.nybloodcenter.org and www.redcelladvantage.com.